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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Natural Light Define a Versatile Family Residence

Authors:
Yaser şenen, Raneem Alsayed, Mohamad Naim Alhajar, Ni̇lay Alchaar
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Natural Light Define a Versatile Family Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and maximizing natural light, this residence integrates adaptable spaces and sustainable materials to create a modern family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural performance and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a central courtyard that promotes natural light and ventilation throughout the home.
04
Adapts interior spaces for multifunctionality, accommodating evolving family needs.
05
Employs a bent A-frame design to optimize spatial efficiency and visual interest.

### Overview
The Residence Villa is situated in a warm climate that informs its design and functional approach. The project aims to integrate contemporary aesthetic principles with eco-conscious design strategies, addressing the residential demands of its specific geographical context. With a focus on sustainability, functionality, and minimalistic elegance, the design creates a harmonious living environment that maximizes natural light and ventilation.

### Spatial Arrangement
The residential layout is executed over three levels, with a deliberate division between public and private areas. The ground floor comprises interconnected common spaces, including the living room, kitchen, and dining area, fostering social interaction. A traditional sitting area, or majlis, provides a culturally relevant space for communal gatherings. The first floor is dedicated to private spaces such as bedrooms and a library, promoting a retreat-like atmosphere. The flexibility of the second floor allows rooms to be adapted as independent living spaces or terraces, accommodating varying needs over time.

### Material Selection
Sustainability is prioritized through a careful selection of materials that enhance both aesthetics and durability. Wood plastic composite is utilized for cladding, ensuring longevity with minimal maintenance. Porcelain and ceramic floor tiles contribute a modern ambiance while maintaining coherence throughout the interiors. White concrete pavers used in outdoor areas present a clean appearance, while the application of exterior sigma paint plaster enhances durability against environmental elements. This thoughtful approach to materiality supports the overall design intent and environmental objectives.

### Sustainable Design Features
The design incorporates several environmental sustainability features, including solar panels on the roof that reduce reliance on the electrical grid. An innovative water collection system enables the reuse of rainwater for purposes such as irrigation. Additionally, the layout promotes cross-ventilation, facilitating passive cooling and decreasing dependence on mechanical systems. These strategies illustrate a commitment to energy efficiency and ecological responsibility, aligning with the overarching design goals.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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